Patterson Playground

NYC PARKS BREAKS GROUND ON THE PATTERSON PLAYGROUND RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT

NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, FAICP, today joined New York City Council Member Diana Ayala, Bronx Community Board 1 District Manager Cedric Loftin, former New York City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, and members of the community to break ground on the reconstruction of Patterson Playground.

“Today we broke ground on what will soon be a wonderful new recreation space for the community, upholding NYC Parks’ commitment to create thriving public spaces for all New Yorkers,” said Commissioner Silver. “With a brand new playground, handball court, basketball court, and community garden, there will truly be something for everyone at the new Patterson Playground.”

“The newly constructed Patterson Playground - with its improved basketball courts, swings, spray showers, and community garden - will be a recreational space all residents can enjoy. This project is a testament to our city’s commitment to improving local parks and I am proud to have offered my support. I thank Commissioner Silver, Borough Commissioner Rodriguez-Sosa, and my predecessor, Melissa Mark-Viverito, for delivering this investment to the South Bronx,” said Council Member Diana Ayala.

“I am delighted to see the reconstruction and revitalization of Patterson Playground,” said Assembly Member Carmen E. Arroyo. “This project is one of many within the district. As a longstanding Assembly member and resident of the Bronx it warms my heart to see this borough’s transformation from a once forgotten area to a thriving vibrant community for future generations.”

The project at Patterson Playground will reconstruct the basketball courts, playground, and handball courts. New paths, chain link fences, concrete curbs, asphalt, concrete pavements, and safety surfacing will also be added to the play area.

The reconstructed playground will provide play units and swings for children of all ages, and feature a decorative concrete pavement area with spray showers. A new community garden will also be built, featuring raised beds, trees, shrubs, and groundcovers.

The $4.53 million project was funded by a $2.3 million allocation from Mayor Bill de Blasio, and $2.2 million from New York City Council Member Diana Ayala.

Patterson Playground, located near P.S. 18 in the Bronx, boasts a junior baseball field, basketball, tennis and volleyball courts, and even a straight running track for those who feel the need to speed. The playground has swings for young children, and is surrounded by decorative flowers and plant-beds. This playground honors Lester W. Patterson, a former Bronx County Judge who was appointed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to become Chairman of the National War Fund.